Ian Paisley snr - Aged 87, Ian Paisley is a long time hardline unionist. As well as co-founding the DUP, he is a founding member and former moderator of the Free Presbyterian Church of Ulster. He led the DUP for more than three decades.
Eileen Paisley - Married to husband Ian for almost 60 years and a member of the House of Lords. Described as a formidable force behind big Ian's career, she is more direct than her husband in criticising the present leadership.
Ian Paisley jnr - Formerly considered an heir to the Paisley dynasty, the 47-year-old was forced to quit his job as Stormont junior minister in 2008 over his links to millionaire property developer Seymour Sweeney.
Nigel Dodds - A member of the Orange Order, the MP for North Belfast is also a former Stormont minister for social development.
His wife is a DUP MEP. He was knocked unconscious when he was hit by a brick during clashes in north Belfast during last year's Twelfth of July disturbances.
Peter Robinson - The DUP strategist, he succeeded Ian Paisley as leader and first minister.
Accusations around the income his family drew from politics and a turbulent personal life cost him his East Belfast Westminster seat.
Iris Robinson - Wife of the first minister, the 64-year-old was forced to resign from political life after it emerged she had an extramarital affair with a 19-year-old. A fall from grace followed and she was faced with allegations of financial impropriety relating to the younger lover's business.
Timothy Johnston - DUP special adviser and among those credited with overhauling the party in recent years. He formerly worked at the forefront of the party's press operation.
Desmond Boal - Aged in his eighties, a former barrister from Derry who went on to become a unionist politician. He co-founded the DUP with Ian Paisley.
Ivan Foster - A former Ian Paisley apostle who rebelled as the big boss surged towards powersharing.
Together with Mr Paisley and Peter Robinson he addressed the first meeting of Ulster Resistance